Investigation Results In Man Arrested On Arson, Animal Cruelty Charges

MANCHESTER, NH — Nearly 100 Manchester Firefighters battled a 2-alarm fire on Hevey Street in a multi-unit apartment building earlier this month, which is now classified as an arson.

Manchester Police and Fire Department worked together on a joint investigation into the fire that occurred July 10th at 361 Hevey St. The fire displaced all residents of the three-story building. It resulted in an estimated $500,000 in damage. Investigators determined the fire was deliberately set and the official cause was arson.

All residents of the building escaped with minor injuries, however, a dog was located deceased during a search of the building and some occupants suffered injuries. A court affidavit said investigators accused a resident of the apartment, Anthony Cote, 37, of starting the fire intentionally. Cote, who resides in the building, is believed to have set the fire within his apartment by lighting a chair on fire. The fire then spread to the entire building.

Cote was arrested Friday, held on preventative detention, and was arraigned Monday, in Hillsborough County Superior Court North. At the arraignment, the court ordered the preventative detention to continue. He is charged with arson (a Class A Felony) and Cruelty to Animals (a Class A Misdemeanor).

©Jeffrey Hastings www.frameofmindphoto.com/news